Finance Apprentice Review

I currently work within a team that manages the 'Cost of Goods Sold' on the P&L. Within my personal role, I manage the cost of importing a product from one country to another and the freight and duty associated with doing this. I look at comparing quarters and am involved with presenting the comparions to those external from my team.

I have learnt lots of new skills during my first six months of apprenticeship. Mainly, I have learnt how to manage my time more effectively and how to prioritise. Also, I have built my confidence with presenting and talking to large groups of people. Another very important skill I have improved upon is my ability to communicate in a more succint and effective manor- getting my point across using less words.

I have really enjoyed my scheme on the Finance Apprenticeship. I have found it to be such a great challenge for me, as school/sxith form do not prepare you for the working environment. I have received lots of support which has allowed me to enjoy my time more even when it is a more stressful period.

The structure of my programme is great. I study at college one day every fortnight, which gives me enough time to revise in between this fortnight. I feel as though I am not too overwhelmed and that I can balance study and work reasonably well. I have been able to create a work timetable and study timetable and work out how to balance the two.

I recieve lots of support from my employer, different members within the team have spent a significant amount of time training me on different roles to give me a broad overview. Also, I am encouraged to spend time studying, occasionally during working hours, when I have an upcoming exam so that I can balance the two.

I am encouraged to spend time studying, occasionally during working hours, when I have an upcoming exam so that I can balance the two. I do spend a lot of time after work to study too and do this using the work facilities. I am also encouraged to contact my 'Buddy' with any study/work related questions I have for advice/support.

Studying the CIMA qualification has allowed me to understand the theory behind the role that I am doing and why things happen. However, I don't necessarily think that it has helped me perform better in my role, I just have a greater depth of understanding for the bigger picture.

There are lots of additional activities, outside of the role, to get involved in. There is a gym in the office where you can attend-for free- and there are also classes that run at different points during the day. Nestle also hold different discussions on relevent topics e.g. gender in the workplace and encourage all to get involved.

Yes

Joining Nestle has been a very insightful, challenging and enjoyable experience for me. I would definitely recommend Nestle to those looking for an apprenticeship as the network has been amazing and the level of support is continuous. Getting my first step on the 'career ladder' has been great because of the company I work for.

I would advise others to perserere as it is, without a doubt, a massive challenge in comparison to the sixth form/college environment and there are a lot of aspects to adapt to. It will be a challenging first few months but it will get easier as you get more involved and feel more comfortable with your role.